Global Women’s News: What We’re Reading in October

October brought the uplifting news of several countries’ major commitments to further financing the education of women and girls. Here in the United States, the confirmation of Justice Brett Kavanagh to the U.S. Supreme Court had us thinking about the linkages between the #MeToo movement and the importance of standing up for human rights worldwide. We’re sharing a roundup of articles on both these topics, with hopes that the momentum behind girls’ education and reducing gender-based violence will continue to grow.

6.3 Million Girls Are Out Of School in Nigeria. Meet One.

The Lily, published by The Washington Post
In Nigeria, an estimated 10.5 million children are out of school, 60% of them girls. Child marriage and poverty are key reasons for girls dropping out. Jennifer is an 18-year-old in southern Nigeria who dreams of becoming a doctor, but her family cannot even afford her school fees. Live a day in her life.

Make Impossible Possible: Unlocking Human Potential Through Education

The Education Commission
At this year’s United Nations General Assembly, world leaders banded together to pledge their support for funding education through the International Finance Facility for Education. At #MakeImpossiblePossible, an event co-hosted by The Education Commission and the UN, leaders committed further support to Sustainable Development Goal 4, Quality Education, through the Facility. Catch up on the highlights.

UNGA 2018: All the education news

Devex
As mentioned above, education was at the forefront of conversation at this year’s UN General Assembly, with leaders from Canada, France, the United Kingdom, Kenya, Niger, and Jordan joining forces to pledge their commitment to girls’ education. Other standout commitments to empowering the next generation included the launch of Generation Unlimited and a new partnership between the Islamic Development Bank’s philanthropic arm and the Qatar-based Education Above All Foundation.

‘People Feel There’s a Chance of Being Believed.’ India’s #MeToo Movement Gathers Momentum

TIME
Nearly a year after the allegations against Harvey Weinstein were revealed, the #MeToo movement has entered into force in India. Women across the country are taking to Twitter to share their own harrowing tales of sexual harassment, revealing the names of prominent men who now must face repercussions for their actions. Learn how the western-born #MeToo movement has encouraged Indian women to find their voices and begin to heal.

Will the #MeToo Movement lead to lasting social change? Six women weigh in.

The Lily, published by The Washington Post #MeToo has empowered increasing numbers of women across America to report sexual violence. But after the highly politicized confirmation of Justice Brett Kavanagh to the Supreme Court despite credible allegations, it’s hard to keep faith that the #MeToo movement will effect lasting social change. Six activists weigh in on recent developments, offering hope that impactful change is still possible.

One Year After #MeToo, UNICEF Is Fighting Sexual Assault Worldwide

Forbes
A new UNICEF report reveals the horrifying fact that 9 million girls aged 15-19 were sexually assaulted last year, of whom only 1 percent reached out for professional help. Learn how UNICEF raises the voices of victims of sexual assault worldwide, and how you can help.